If you’re looking for a selection of the best public libraries in Massachusetts, the following 10 are well worth a visit.
1. Boston Public Library
Boston Public Library (BPL) is located near the Charles River in Boston, Massachusetts The library was first proposed by a French ventriloquist named M. Nicholas Marie Alexandre. He proposed a book and prints exchange between American and French libraries. It officially opened in 1854.
There’s a Children’s Library and section called Teen Central. BPL offers a wide range of services – from homework help to renting spaces for events or meetings. There is also an online catalog to explore.
Fill out their contact form if you need assistance.
2. Worcester Public Library
Worcester Public Library is located in the heart of downtown Worcester. It opened to the public on April 30, 1860. The library hosts a digital studio and an updated audiovisual area and bookstore. People can also visit the Fletcher Family Innovation Center and a new Hanover Teen Space.
Students and researchers can take advantage of quiet study areas and a computer lab. Browse their catalog from the comfort of your home. The library updates its calendar with new events and classes. The library also offers Do It Yourself services like a 3D printing lab and virtual reality sessions. There are several community branches across the city.
Contact them if you’re looking for something specific.
3. Springfield City Library
Springfield City Library started as a private library company in the mid-1700s. In 1865, it opened as a public library to the city of Springfield.
People can take advantage of its range of services, from an eLibrary to meeting rooms. The library also hosts a variety of events which are perfect for people in the community to join in on.
Feel free to search their catalog virtually. It has several locations across Springfield, each of which offers great resources.
Contact their team for more information.
4. The Cambridge Public Library
The Cambridge Public Library opened in 1889 and has been a mainstay for the city of Cambridge.
The library has about 100 public computers, free wifi, meeting spaces, as well as children’s and teen’s rooms. You can browse their catalog online. The library puts on a number of classes for people to attend. About 100 programs are hosted at the library each month. Their event calendar is updated with the latest happenings.
Get in contact with the library here.
5. Pollard Memorial Library
Pollard Memorial Library opened on May 20, 1844 but did not become public until 1883. It is located in Lowell, Massachusetts.
There is a children’s and teens section to check out and services for computer workshops and meeting rooms. There are also electronic resources for people to check out. The Pollard Memorial Library also offers a service to buy discounted museum passes across the state if you have a library card. There are also a number of events to attend at the library.
Contact their team if you want to learn more.
6. New Bedford Free Public Library
New Bedford Free Public Library was founded by the New Bedford townspeople in 1876. It has expanded since then, now spanning 35,600 square feet.
You can take a virtual tour, see what’s happening at the center, and search their online catalog. Visit the library and take advantage of their meeting and study rooms. The main library is located in downtown New Bedford, but there are a number of branches throughout the city.
Contact them if you want to know more.
7. Thomas Crane Public Library
Thomas Crane Public Library is located in Quincy, Massachusetts. It opened in 1882 funded by Albert Crane in honor of his father, Thomas Crane. It’s won a number of awards due to its architectural design.
People can visit the library to check out their design and attend one of their events. It has a childrens and teens section online, with more information about their services. You can even search their online database if you’re looking for something specific. The library also has several offline catalogs to peruse through when you’re there.
Contact them if you have any questions.
8. Lynn Public Library
The city of Lynn first had a social library started in 1815. It wasn’t until 1900 when an established building was erected to become the Lynn Public Library. Lynn Public Library became fine-free and stopped charging for overdue items on April 7, 2022.
There’s a children’s and teen section located at the library. The library also hosts a variety of events, so be sure to check out their calendar for something fun to do. Search through their online services if you’re wanting to know more about the virtual offerings. They also have online services for people to take advantage of.
Contact their team if you have any questions.
9. Fall River Public Library
Fall River is located near the border of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The Fall River Public library opened in 1861 but did not operate from its current location until 1899. The library also has a variety of other items to check-out, called their “Library of Things”. Its items include WiFi hotspots and electronic games.
You can browse their online catalog if you’re wanting to take a peak at what they offer. Check out what they have planned for children and teens at the library. Wi-Fi and computers are also available for people to use. The library hosts a number of events for the public.
Contact them if you have any questions.
10. Newton Public Library
Newton Free Library is located downtown Newton, Massachusetts. People voted to support a library in 1886. It opened a physical location with financial help from Andrew Carnegie in 1904. Its new location opened in 1973 and changed its name from the Newton Free Library to the Newton Public Library.
There is a children’s and teen’s section at the library. You can reserve a meeting room, search their database, and see their list of events with their online calendar. The library also offers a book delivery service for people 60 years and older. You can reserve their meeting rooms and use their public computers.
Contact them for more information.